Approach to aortic aneurysms in the elderly

Abstract

There is an increase in the number of older persons worldwide. Because of this in the future we will much more manage the diseases which are more commonly seen in elderly in daily practice. One of the mortal diseases commonly seen in elderly patients is aortic aneurysm. Aort aneurysms are vary rare in patients under 50 age. When a patient over 65 age is examined, aortic aneurysm should take place in differential diagnosis list. aneurysm may be seen at both thoracic and abdominal aorta, but abdominal aorta is a more common site. Risk factors for aortic aneurysms are similar with coronary artery disease risk factors. Clinically aneurysms may be asymptomatic, symptomatic or ruptured. Asymptomatic patients are diagnosed either accidentally or after screening. Patients with aortic aneurysm should be followed up at certain intervals according to aneurysm diameter, growth rate and concomitant diseases. During this period, necessary life style modification and medical treatament should be recommended. Finally, if the aneurysm diameter reaches at high levels to be ruptured, consideringly both anatomical convenience of aorta and surgical risk of the patient either open surgical repair or endovascular repair is decided.